The Sirajganj phase of the "Inter-school Debate Competition 2024 on Plastic Use and Management," organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Bangladesh Debate Federation (BDF), concluded Sunday at the Sirajganj officers’ club.
The competition, which ran for two days, aimed to raise awareness about plastic pollution and foster a culture of sustainable practices among students.
Police Lines School and College claimed the championship title after an intense and thought-provoking final, with Sirajganj Power Development Board High School finishing as the runner-up. Jabir Ibn Haque from the runner-up team became the debater of the final. A total of 16 teams from various schools across the Sirajganj district participated in the event, showcasing their knowledge, critical thinking, and debating skills on issues related to plastic use, waste management, and environmental sustainability.
As the Guest honour, Additional District Magistrate LitusLowrenceChiran delivered an inspiring speech on the urgent need for youth engagement in addressing the growing issue of plastic pollution.He highlighted the importance of involving students in analysing critical discourses through debating. He emphasized, “Plastic pollution is not just an environmental issue; it is a challenge to our collective future. While policies and regulations play a crucial role, it is the awareness, commitment, and active participation of the younger generation that will truly drive the change we need. This debate competition serves as a platform for nurturing young leaders who will be at the forefront of this battle for sustainability.”
MrChiran further added, “It is heartening to see such a high level of enthusiasm and critical thinking among the students. By engaging in this debate, you are not just discussing a problem – you are becoming part of the solution. I am confident that the ideas and perspectives you have shared here today will contribute to shaping policies and actions that will benefit our environment for years to come.”
Deputy Director of Department of Environment, Sirajganj Md Abdul Gaofur, who was also present as aguest, highlighted the importance of community engagement in environmental sustainability. She remarked, “The fight against plastic pollution begins at the grassroots level, and it is essential to involve every member of our society, starting with our youth. The insights and passion demonstrated by these students offer hope that we can build a more sustainable and environmentally conscious community. Let’s take the lessons learned today beyond this auditorium and into our daily lives.”
UNIDO’s National Expert for Plastic Recycling and Consumer Awareness Mahobul Islam echoed this sentiment, adding, “Our goal is to create a platform through debating where students can explore the complexities of plastic pollution and contribute to developing solutions that can be implemented across the nation. This initiative focuses on policy development, raising community awareness, improving industry practices, and advancing the recycling sector to promote sustainable plastic use. Engaging students through debate helps bring these issues to the forefront and encourages innovative thinking”
Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Sirajganj Sadar Md Monowar Hossain, highlighted the significance of adopting a circular economy approach to address the issue of plastic west, and addressed the participants, saying, “We are proud to host this debate competition in Sirajganj. It is encouraging to see young minds actively engaging with such critical topics, and I believe they will play an essential role in leading us toward a cleaner and more sustainable future.”
The competition forms a key component of the broader project entitled “Integrated Approach Towards Sustainable Plastics Use and Marine Litter Prevention in Bangladesh,” jointly implemented by UNIDO and the Department of Environment (DoE), Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) of Bangladesh. The initiative is funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Government of Norway.
In his closing remarks,PlabanGongopaddhay, President of BDF, highlighted the value of debates in developing critical thinking, stating that the enthusiasm shown by students reaffirms their role in spreading awareness for a sustainable future. “The level of engagement shown by the students is a testament to their commitment to making a positive impact. BDF believes that engaging students through debates is crucial for advancing critical thinking for ensuring sustainable solutions in the country. By advancing young potentials across the country, we are nurturing a generation that is prepared to take on the challenges of environmental sustainability.” He stated.
The event saw the notable presence government high officials, civil society members, teachers and representatives from local media. Among other distinguished guests, BDF's general secretary Zehad Al Mehedi, and senior vice president Mahmudul Alam Rasel were present at the closing ceremony conducted by BDF's Assistant General Secretary Mahmudul Hasan.
The Sirajganj phase is part of a series of debate competitions planned across the country, with the next phase scheduled to take place in Cox's Bazar in the coming weeks. These debates aim to engage school students in discussions on plastic waste management and sustainable practices, ultimately contributing to the larger goal of reducing plastic pollution in Bangladesh.
